Shape memory alloy actuators in smart structures: Modeling and simulation

Abstract

This review article gives an overview of the new and quickly developing field of shape memory alloy (SMA) actuators in smart structures. The focus is on the aspects of modeling and simulation of such structures, a task that goes beyond classical modeling approaches as it has to combine constitutive modeling with structural and control aspects in a highly interdisciplinary way. We review developments in each of these fields, trying to combine them into a smooth picture of how to treat the problem efficiently. After a discussion of modeling aspects with particular regard to actuator applications, the simulation of standard feedback control methods is demonstrated. Subsequently, model based methods from optimal control theory are presented, accounting for the strongly nonlinear and hysteretic material behavior of SMAs. Real-time optimal control methods are introduced and, finally, aspects of finite element implementation of an SMA actuator model are discussed and illustrated by the simulation of an adaptive aircraft wing. This review article cites 155 references.